We arrived in Athens around noon.  Our transition through customs was very smooth.  The airport was pretty similar to those in the U.S.  We took a coach to our hotel.  Driving around the city, I saw the new Olympic stadium and many familiar brand names including Shell, Nokia, and TGI Fridays. 

We took a walking tour of the local area which was fun.  We saw the changing of the guard at the tomb of the unknown soldier, the 1st Olympic Stadium, an ancient bath house, the 1st cemetery, and other ancient ruins.  We also walked through the flea market where vendors sold designer purses, mimes entertained the children, and many people filled the streets.  I ate a chicken gyro for the first time and it was delicious. 

One thing I noticed here in Athens, which I thought would be different, was cars drive on the same side of the street as in the U.S.  Many of the drivers I've seen have had road rage and drove very fast.  The types of cars were mixed.  There were a lot of BMWs, Mercedes and Audis, but also a lot of Toyotas and Hyundais.  The ages of vehicles also varied.  Also in Athens, they were still celebrating Christmas.  They celebrate 12 days of Christmas starting on Dec. 25.  They played American Christmas Songs.  One of them was my favorite, Santa Claus is Coming to Town by the Jackson 5. 

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